Getting important identity documents can feel confusing, especially if you are applying for them for the first time. The good news is that the process for a PAN Card and Aadhaar Card is now easier to understand, with several government services available online.
However, PAN Card and Aadhaar Card are issued through different systems, so the application process is not exactly the same. Here is a simple guide explaining how the process works and what applicants should know.
What Is a PAN Card?
A Permanent Account Number, commonly called a PAN, is a unique identification number used for tax-related and financial purposes in India.
A PAN can be useful when filing income tax returns, opening certain financial accounts, completing investment-related transactions and handling other financial services.
The Income Tax Department currently provides an Instant e-PAN service for eligible individuals who have not previously been allotted a PAN. The service is free and available online.
How to Apply for an Instant e-PAN
The online process can be convenient if you already have Aadhaar.
To use Instant e-PAN, an individual generally needs:
- A valid Aadhaar number
- A mobile number linked with Aadhaar
- Access to DigiLocker
- No PAN already allotted
The Income Tax Department says the Instant e-PAN service is free of charge. Applicants can access it through the e-Filing portal by selecting Instant e-PAN and then choosing Get New e-PAN.
Step-by-Step PAN Process
First, visit the official Income Tax e-Filing portal.
Next, select the Instant e-PAN option from the available services. Choose Get New e-PAN and follow the instructions.
You will need to complete Aadhaar-based verification. An OTP may be sent to the mobile number linked with your Aadhaar.
DigiLocker may also be used to obtain an accepted document for date-of-birth verification. The Income Tax Department lists documents such as a birth certificate, matriculation certificate, driving license and Class 10 marksheet among the acceptable options for this process.
After successful verification, the digitally signed e-PAN can be generated electronically.
PAN Card and Aadhaar Card
What Is an Aadhaar Card?
Aadhaar is a 12-digit identification number issued by the Unique Identification Authority of India, or UIDAI.
Aadhaar enrollment involves collecting demographic and biometric information from the applicant. UIDAI says new Aadhaar enrollment is free of cost.
Applicants can enroll at an authorized Aadhaar Enrollment Centre anywhere in India with acceptable proof-of-identity and proof-of-address documents.
How to Apply for a New Aadhaar Card
Unlike Instant e-PAN, first-time Aadhaar enrollment is not simply an online-only process.
The applicant needs to visit an authorized Aadhaar Enrollment Centre. The process generally includes filling out the enrollment form, submitting the required documents and providing demographic and biometric information.
The center collects details such as photographs and biometric information according to UIDAI requirements.
After enrollment, the applicant receives an acknowledgment containing an enrollment identification number. This number can be useful for checking the status of the application.
UIDAI also states that individuals should enroll only once because duplicate enrollments can be rejected.
What Documents May Be Needed?
The exact documents depend on the applicant and the type of enrollment.
Common identity and address documents can include items such as a passport, driving license, election photo ID and ration card, subject to UIDAI’s current document rules.
Applicants should check the latest UIDAI list of acceptable documents before visiting an enrollment center.
PAN and Aadhaar: What Is the Difference?
Although people often use them together, PAN and Aadhaar serve different purposes.
PAN is primarily associated with taxation and financial identification.
Aadhaar is an identity number issued by UIDAI and is used for identity-related verification and various government and private services.
For new PAN applicants, Aadhaar-PAN linking is handled automatically during the application process where applicable, according to the Income Tax Department.
Important News Takeaway
The process for obtaining a PAN Card and Aadhaar Card has become more convenient, but applicants should understand the difference between the two.
Eligible individuals can obtain an Instant e-PAN online for free if they meet the requirements. New Aadhaar applicants, however, generally need to visit an authorized enrollment center for biometric enrollment.
Most importantly, applicants should use only official government websites and authorized centers. Avoid sharing Aadhaar OTPs or sensitive personal information with unknown agents or websites.
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